Yes, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with a higher risk of dementia, particularly vascular dementia, due to inflammation and damage to blood vessels in the brain, leading to cognitive issues like memory problems, confusion, and "brain fog," though the absolute risk remains relatively low. Lupus can affect the brain by causing inflammation, attacking blood vessels, and disrupting the blood-brain barrier, necessitating vigilance for cognitive decline in patients, especially as they age.
With modern medicine, most people with lupus (SLE) can expect a near-normal lifespan, with 85-90% surviving at least 10 years post-diagnosis, and many living much longer due to earlier diagnosis and better treatments, though complications like heart disease, infection, and kidney issues remain major concerns. Factors like age at diagnosis, disease severity, race, and treatment adherence significantly influence outcomes, but overall, lupus management has vastly improved survival rates.
Some lupus complications can include:
During uncontrolled acute or chronic lupus activity, organs may be damaged, most commonly those in the cardiovascular, neuropsychiatric, renal, and musculoskeletal systems.
With lupus, avoid excessive sun exposure, smoking, high stress, and overtiredness; limit sugar, salt, saturated/trans fats, and alcohol; and be cautious with certain supplements like alfalfa, as they can trigger flares or interact with meds, so always check with your doctor about diet, medications (like sulfa drugs), and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
People with lupus may want to avoid or limit eggs, as they are high in cholesterol. Eating foods high in cholesterol may increase your risk of cardiovascular complications from lupus. However, when eaten in moderation, eggs can be beneficial for those with lupus.
Lupus can attack many different parts of the body. Some call it the cruel mystery. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can strike any part of the body, but the wide range of symptoms can be easily mistaken for something else.
What are lupus flares?
August 29 — The Lupus Research Alliance is excited to share the good news that a potential new medicine for lupus, anifrolumab, reduced disease activity versus placebo in a second Phase III study. Anifrolumab is a therapeutic antibody that blocks type I interferons, a molecule that promotes lupus inflammation.
The medicines used most often to manage lupus include:
Many people with lupus have trouble sleeping. If you are waking up a lot at night or having trouble falling asleep, this can lead to more tiredness and fatigue throughout the day.
What is Stage 4 Kidney Lupus (Diffuse Lupus Nephritis)? This is a more serious stage of the condition, where there is usually a lot of protein and sometimes blood in the urine. Blood pressure may become high, and kidney function can get worse.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Careers That May Trigger Lupus Symptoms
In general, some types of jobs may be harder for people with lupus to manage, including: Physically demanding jobs like construction, waiting tables, or nursing. Outdoor jobs like landscaping or lifeguarding.
Doctors may prescribe cyclophosphamide for 3–6 months until a person's lupus goes into remission. After this, a doctor may prescribe a less potent medication with fewer risks of side effects.
Lupus causes inflammation throughout your body. This can cause problems in your organs, including: Kidney damage (lupus nephritis). Heart problems, including inflammation in the heart (myocarditis), heart valves, or lining of the heart muscle (pericarditis).
Lupus can also cause other problems in the abdomen, including peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining) and ascites (a build-up of fluids in the abdomen). Symptoms of peritonitis and ascites include: Abdominal pain and swelling. Nausea and vomiting.
Lupus symptoms may get worse with age due to disease activity and past damage. Osteoporosis is more common in people with lupus, increasing fracture risk. Hormone replacement therapy may increase mild to moderate lupus flares.
Some people are born more likely to get lupus. Infections, certain medicines or even sunlight can trigger the condition. There's no cure for lupus, but treatments can help manage symptoms.
According to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) nomenclature published in 1999,1 there are 19 peripheral and CNS syndromes that are associated with lupus (Table 1). Five of the CNS symptoms are psychiatric symptoms: acute confusional state, anxiety disorder, cognitive dysfunction, mood disorder, and psychosis.
Because symptoms present similarly to other ailments, your doctor may not test you for lupus. Many go through a process of elimination through testing for other causes of the symptoms first.
(3) Garlic
Unfortunately, the enhancement of immune response is counterproductive in people with autoimmune disease such as lupus, because their immune system is already overactive. As a result, people with lupus and lupus-like signs should avoid cooking with garlic and adding it to food.
People with lupus should avoid certain supplements, including echinacea, spirulina, and vitamin E. These supplements may increase the immune system response and trigger lupus symptoms. It is also helpful to avoid excess sun exposure, salt, and alfalfa sprouts, which may also make symptoms worse.